slow cooker chicken wings recipe
The Best slow cooker chicken wings recipe
They’re perfect for game days or just a lazy Friday night when you want something satisfying without the cleanup. No fancy tools, just a slow cooker and a little seasoning. And honestly, the health perks? Well, lean protein without all the extra fuss. You can even mix in some veggies or swap out some of the sauce for a lighter option if you’re watching what you eat. It’s simple, it’s tasty, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Slow Cooker Honey-Glazed Chicken Wings
Tender, juicy chicken wings coated in a sweet and sticky honey-glaze, perfect for game day or a casual weeknight meal. The slow cooker ensures crispy skin and melt-in-your-mouth meat.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skin-on chicken wings
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the chicken wings with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Spread them out on the baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway, until the skin is crispy. -
2
While the wings cook, whisk together honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. -
3
Transfer the crispy wings to the slow cooker and pour the glaze over them. Stir gently to coat evenly. Cook on low for 4 hours or until the wings are fork-tender. -
4
Remove the wings from the slow cooker and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Honey-Glazed Chicken Wings Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Honey-Glazed Chicken Wings
How long should I cook the chicken wings in the slow cooker?
Slow cooker chicken wings typically take 4 to 5 hours on low heat or 2 to 2.5 hours on high heat, depending on the size of the wings and your preferred doneness. For crispy skin, check them at the 3-hour mark on low or 1.5-hour mark on high.
Can I use store-bought marinade or sauce instead of making my own?
Absolutely! A simple store-bought marinade (like BBQ sauce, honey garlic, or lemon pepper) works well. Just reduce the liquid in the recipe by half if using a thicker sauce to prevent soggy wings. For extra flavor, mix a small amount of sauce into the marinade before adding the wings.
How do I keep the wings from getting mushy?
To avoid mushy wings, avoid overcrowding the slow cooker and let the wings sit in the marinade for at least 1 hour before cooking. If using a thick sauce, stir in a little cornstarch or flour to thicken it slightly before adding to the pot. Also, cook on high heat if possible.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the marinade and wings in advance, then cook them fresh in the slow cooker. If using a sauce, let it thicken slightly before serving. For best results, serve wings warm or at room temperature.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
No problem! Oven-baked wings work just as well. Preheat to 425°F (220°C), bake on a lined tray for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
